Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation, located in Treaty 4 Territory, Saskatchewan, reached a $99 million settlement with the Government of Canada to resolve its Agricultural Benefits claim — often called the “Cows and Plows” agreement.

Under Treaty 4, Canada had promised farming tools, seeds, and livestock to support the Nation’s agricultural transition. These promises were never fulfilled. The settlement acknowledges that failure and provides compensation to invest in:

• Housing development to address shortages on-reserve
• Infrastructure upgrades including roads and community facilities
• Water system improvements for clean drinking water
• Youth programming focused on culture, sports, and leadership
• Per-capita distribution: $40,000 for each adult member; youth funds placed in trust accounts earning 4% annually

Chief Melissa Tavita called the agreement a meaningful acknowledgment of broken promises and a chance to invest in the Nation’s long-term prosperity. The settlement is part of Canada’s broader reconciliation efforts guided by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.